"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Hebrews 10:35-36

 June 2

"So do not give up your hope which will be greatly rewarded.

For, having done what was right in God's eyes, you have need of waiting before his word has effect for you." - Hebrews 10:35-36 (BBE)

All of us have times when we feel helpless and hopeless. While these feelings can be caused by many factors, hopelessness and loss of confidence seem especially prevalent in difficult times but can occur anytime even on a beautiful June day. This is not an uncommon feeling for anyone in challenging seasons of life but especially possible if and when we are trying to change our personal situation, community, city, country, or world for the good. It’s easy to get burned out in these stressful times of rapid change, greed, apathy, and moral confusion. However, remember no matter how discouraged you become, "nothing is impossible with God".

It also helps keep our balance if we remember these 5 truths:

1. Hope can co-exist with other feelings including Grief, Fear, Disappointment, and Sadness.

2. You still have great power no matter how impossible or predetermined situations seem.

3. There is a difference between our efforts being worthless and our actions not accomplishing what we hoped. Success does not always equal approval.

4. Change is rarely straightforward. It usually occurs rather slowly. You can feel hopeless one day and then have a breakthrough the next day. Along the road to winning there can be a lot of losing before good results are seen.

5. Hope is a basis, not a substitute, for action. Total victory is not the goal. If you’re losing hope, pray before giving up.

Remember, God will never fail nor forsake you! When you feel pressured to give up hope and turn your back on what Christ is calling you to do, remember the benefits of standing firm and continuing to live and work for justice, truth, and good. Patient endurance is evidence you are committed to Jesus enough to work hard today for God's greatest good. Persevere. God will bless you!

Prayer: Lord, Thank you for giving me Hope and Strength. Help me to persevere even if I become discouraged and tired. Amen

Meditation For The Day: God transforms hopelessness into hope!

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)